Buildings and the built environment use vast amounts of energy and other resources in construction, operation, and demolition. In 2009, the residential and commercial building sector was responsible for more than 50 percent of total annual U.S. energy consumption and 74 percent of total U.S. electricity consumption. Beyond that, buildings are responsible for significant amounts of greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants, while the materials in them can "offgas" and contribute to indoor air pollution. Green buildings use land and energy efficiently, conserve water, improve indoor and outdoor air quality, and increase the use of recycled materials. They can also lead to reduced operating costs, offering a better return on investment and overall building value.

Written by prominent attorneys and other practitioners in the green building field, The Law of Green Buildings provides an overview of green buildings and sustainable development, explaining what makes a building "green" as well as governmental initiatives to promote these buildings. The authors highlight significant statutes and regulations, examine green building rating systems and siting, address retrofitting, and analyze legal issues that attorneys and other building professionals should be aware of when advising clients seeking to construct, finance, or lease a green building.